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Definitions for Reporting Abuse

As described in Chapters 39 and 415, Florida Statutes, the Florida Department of Children & Families is charged with providing comprehensive protective services for children who are abused, neglected or at threat of harm and vulnerable adults who are abuse, neglected or exploited in the state by requiring that reports of abuse, neglect, threatened harm, or exploitation be made to the Florida Abuse Hotline.

Law enforcement is to take the lead in all criminal investigations and prosecution.

Child - any born, unmarried person less than 18 years old who has not been emancipated by order of the court. (Definitions for Children)

Vulnerable Adult - a person age 18 years or older who has a disability or is suffering from the infirmities of aging. (Definitions for Adults)

A. The Florida Abuse Hotline will accept a report when:

There is reasonable cause to suspect that a child

who can be located in Florida, or is temporarily out of the state but expected to return in the immediate future,

has been harmed or is believed to be threatened with harm

from a person responsible for the care of the child.

OR

Any vulnerable adult who is a resident of Florida or currently located in Florida

who is believed to have been abused or neglected by a caregiver in Florida, or

suffering from the ill effects of neglect by self and is need of service, or

exploited by any person who stands in a position of trust or confidence, or any person who knows or should know that a vulnerable adult lacks capacity to consent and who obtains or uses, or endeavors to obtain or use, their funds, assets or property.

B. Definition of Caretaker Responsible (Child): Every child should expect to be safe and protected when in the care of:

a PARENT, even if the parent is a minor; or

a LEGAL CUSTODIAN; or

an ADULT HOUSEHOLD MEMBER found in the home continually or at regular intervals; or

ANOTHER ADULT who has been entrusted with, or voluntarily assumed responsibility for the care of the child; or.

ANOTHER CHILD who is an employee or volunteer of a daycare, public or private school, agency, summer camp or similar facility when given sole responsibility for the care of the child.

C. Definition of Possible Responsible Person (Vulnerable Adult):

a CAREGIVER to the victim, or

a VULNERABLE ADULT in need of services, or

a PERSON who stands in a position of trust and confidence, or

a PERSON who knows or should know that the vulnerable adult lacks capacity to consent.